Signs & Symptoms Of Recurrent Multiple Myeloma

Cancer occurs in the body when its cells begin to grow out of control. This can happen to cells in nearly any part of the body, and has the ability to spread to various areas. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a cancer that is found in plasma cells. When these malignant plasma cells are formed, they grow uncontrollably and produce what is known as a specific tumor called a plasmacytoma. These tumors usually develop and are found in bone. While it is rare for plasmacytomas to be found in tissue, it is possible.

Multiple myeloma is a rare cancer, yet it has been proven that African Americans are twice as likely to be diagnosed, when being compared to white Americans. In fact, Myeloma Central has concluded that in the United States, African Americans represent about 20 percent of the population living with multiple myeloma.

Recurrent multiple myeloma, also known as relapsed multiple myeloma, is when the plasmacytomas return after a period of remission or treatment. Since multiple myeloma does not have a cure, it is likely for it to return. In order to address the population of people diagnosed with MM, it must begin with awareness of the signs and symptoms to determine when to seek medical attention.

WATCH: African Americans & Multiple Myeloma with Dr. Craig Cole

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Signs

Signs are considered objective medical evidence that is found when a patient is examined. According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, there are two types of asymptomatic multiple myeloma that have signs but no symptoms: active myeloma and smoldering myeloma.